California’s Democratic governor race exploded into chaos during a combative debate at Pomona College Tuesday night, with candidates zeroing in on billionaire Tom Steyer’s fossil fuel investments and former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra’s controversial policy record, just days before ballots are mailed.
Six leading Democratic contenders fought for traction in a debate nationally described as disorganized, with no standout moment and frequent interruptions that left the audience frustrated. As one candidate, former Orange County Rep. Katie Porter, starkly remarked, “this is worse than my teenagers at dinner.”
Steyer’s Fossil Fuel Past Sparks Sharp Attacks
Steyer, who has poured at least $132 million of his own fortune into the race and held a poll lead among Democrats, was under fire from Porter and others for his history investing in fossil fuels. Porter challenged his “climate-friendly” messaging by accusing him of profiteering from polluters.
“How about profiteers pay?”
Steyer defended his record, asserting he divested from fossil fuel holdings and is committed to making “polluters pay.” His campaign remains a lightning rod over trust within the Democratic base as California grapples with escalating climate and energy challenges.
Becerra Pressed on Policies and Past Controversies
Becerra, who surged in polls after Eric Swalwell’s recent withdrawal amid sexual assault allegations, faced pointed criticism from moderate Democrat Matt Mahan, San Jose’s mayor. Mahan challenged Becerra’s tenure as Biden’s health secretary, pressing him on the legality and specifics of his proposals—particularly a state emergency to freeze home insurance rates, which led to a heated argument with moderators.
Becerra’s record on immigration and health policies also drew scrutiny. Progressives and Steyer’s campaign highlighted Becerra’s ties to firms like Chevron and his controversial handling of unaccompanied migrant children during his federal tenure. A major investigation revealed that children under his watch ended up in dangerous child labor situations, a charge Becerra dismissed as “MAGA talking points.”
“We did everything we could,” Becerra said, blaming the Department of Homeland Security.
Republicans Add Fuel to Fire
Republican candidate Chad Bianco, the Riverside County sheriff known for conspiratorial rhetoric, aggressively attacked Democratic policies throughout the evening. His false claim that COVID-19 vaccines “poisoned” millions drew audible groans from the audience.
Bianco’s interruptions also sparked a backlash from Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, who criticized Bianco’s recent controversial seizure of 650,000 ballots in Riverside County, highlighting ongoing tensions around election integrity in California.
Democrats Struggle to Differentiate Amid Policy Blur
Despite fierce exchanges, the Democratic candidates largely failed to distinguish themselves on key issues like the soaring cost of living, health care, housing, and energy. Most carefully avoided attacking Governor Gavin Newsom’s liberal policies, who notably withheld any endorsement in this crowded field.
Matt Mahan summarized the sentiment, declaring, “They’re all wrong,” on health care solutions, as Democrats debated costly single-payer proposals against Republicans pushing Trump-era tax policies that threaten access for millions.
On homelessness, all candidates supported mandatory mental health treatment for residents refusing repeated shelter offers. On energy, a sharp divide emerged: Porter, Mahan, and Villaraigosa backed keeping oil refineries open amid high gas prices, while Steyer pushed for higher taxes on oil profits. Republican Steve Hilton, dominating GOP polls, promised to slash climate policies but offered scant details.
Voters Left More Confused Than Ever
Pomona College student Kloi Ogans captured the growing voter frustration after the chaotic debate:
“I think I’m more confused on who to vote for now than ever… I have a lot more researching to do.”
Ogans said affordability and Trump’s immigration enforcement sweep worries loom large among young California voters but was left disappointed as candidates’ constant sparring drowned out substantive debate.
With ballots set to be mailed soon, California’s Democratic candidates must quickly clarify their visions or risk ceding ground to the GOP in one of the nation’s most critical governor’s races in 2026.
